VPN Best Free: Finding the Best Free VPN to Change Your Location Without Selling Your Soul

VPN Best Free: Finding the Best Free VPN to Change Your Location Without Selling Your Soul
Finding the Best Free VPN to Change Your Location Without Selling Your Soul

Okay, so let me set the stage: it’s me, a cybersecurity nerd, sitting in my little corner office (read: a coffee shop, because the Wi-Fi’s free, and let’s be real, I need the caffeine). I’ve been doing my thing—removing malware, safeguarding websites, and basically being a digital superhero—when suddenly, a friend texted me, panicked.

“I need a VPN. Right now. A good, free one. HELP.”

Ah, the classic VPN scramble. It turns out they wanted to watch their favorite show that was only streaming in another country. I mean, I get it—no one wants to miss that season finale. But here’s the thing: when it comes to free VPNs, you need to tread carefully. Let’s dive into this whole “free VPN to change your location” situation, shall we?

Why You Need a VPN (Besides Watching Cool Shows)

First off, let’s talk about why VPNs are the MVPs of the internet. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is like your invisibility cloak online. It helps you:

  • Hide your IP address.
  • Stay safe from snoopers (looking at you, public Wi-Fi).
  • Access geo-blocked content (the whole “change your location” thing).

But here’s the catch: not all VPNs are created equal, especially the free ones. Some are like that friend who borrows money and never pays you back—they take more than they give. Data logging, ads, painfully slow speeds…you get the idea.

My (Mildly Hilarious) Experiment with Free VPNs

Now, I wasn’t about to leave my friend hanging, so I decided to test a few free VPNs myself. I know, I know—I’m a cybersecurity specialist; I should’ve been skeptical from the start. But hey, I was curious! And maybe, just maybe, I’d find a gem. Spoiler: it was…an experience.

  • VPN #1: The “Free as in Your Patience” VPN
    First up, we tried a freebie that shall remain nameless (for legal reasons, and also because I don’t like being rude). It connected, sure, but the speed? Imagine trying to stream a video while walking uphill, both ways, in the snow. That’s how slow it was.
  • VPN #2: The Data Muncher
    The next one looked promising—sleek interface, easy to use. But wait! What’s this? Oh, just a giant Terms and Conditions section stating they might sell your data to third parties. Cool, cool, love that for me (read: I don’t).
  • VPN #3: The Decent One (Finally!)
    Then, finally, a light at the end of the tunnel: ProtonVPN Free. No ads, no creepy data collection, and decent speeds for a free plan. Sure, it didn’t have all the bells and whistles of a premium service, but for a quick location change? It did the job without compromising my cybersecurity morals.

Bonus Section: Surfshark VPN - Is It Worth It?

Surfshark VPN
Photo Credit: https://surfshark.com/

If you’re looking for a VPN that punches above its weight class, Surfshark VPN might just be the one for you. It’s a premium VPN that offers some killer features while being one of the most budget-friendly options out there—especially if you’re cool with signing up for long-term plans.

i. What Makes Surfshark Stand Out?

Let’s break it down. Surfshark comes with an impressive range of features that cater to both casual users and cybersecurity enthusiasts:

  • Unlimited Device Connections: Unlike most VPNs that cap the number of devices, Surfshark lets you connect all your gadgets at once. Phone, laptop, tablet, smart TV—bring it on.
  • Global Reach: With over 3,200 servers across 100 countries, you’ll have plenty of options to pick from when changing your virtual location.
  • Privacy & Security: It uses AES-256 encryption (basically the Fort Knox of encryption) and features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and MultiHop for added privacy.
  • Streaming Champion: Whether it’s Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+, Surfshark is excellent at bypassing geo-blocks to unlock your favorite content worldwide.
  • CleanWeb: An ad blocker that also shields you from trackers and malware-infected sites.

ii. What About the Free Option?

Unfortunately, Surfshark doesn’t have a permanently free tier. However, they do offer:

  • 7-Day Free Trial: Available for mobile users on iOS and Android. During this trial, you can experience the full features of Surfshark with no limitations.
  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: This applies to all plans and gives you the flexibility to try the service risk-free.

If you need a reliable VPN for a short period (say, to binge a show or complete a one-off project), the free trial or money-back guarantee is worth taking advantage of.

iii. Who Should Use Surfshark VPN?

Surfshark is perfect for anyone who wants:

  • Strong privacy and security without breaking the bank.
  • A VPN that works seamlessly across multiple devices (unlimited connections, remember?).
  • A smooth streaming experience with access to geo-blocked content.

On the downside, its monthly subscription plan is a bit pricey, so it’s better suited for users looking for long-term savings on a 1- or 2-year plan.

If you want a VPN that’s reliable, packed with features, and offers excellent value for money, Surfshark is an easy recommendation. While it may not be free, its free trial and money-back guarantee make it a no-risk option to try out. Whether you’re securing your online activity or unlocking global content, Surfshark has got you covered.

Pros and Cons of Free VPNs

Let’s break it down—the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to free VPNs.

Pros:

  • They’re free (obviously). Perfect for casual use like streaming geo-blocked shows or basic browsing.
  • Some free VPNs (like ProtonVPN and Windscribe) offer decent security without compromising your data.
  • No long-term financial commitment—just download and go.

Cons:

  • Limited server locations and slower speeds compared to paid VPNs.
  • Data limits (e.g., TunnelBear gives you just 2GB per month).
  • Potentially shady practices: some free VPNs sell your data or bombard you with ads.
  • Lack of advanced features like split tunneling or better encryption protocols.

Should You Use Free VPNs? It depends. If you’re just looking to change your location for streaming or basic browsing, free VPNs can be a lifesaver. But if your primary concern is security—like for sensitive transactions or protecting personal data—invest in a reputable paid VPN. The peace of mind is totally worth it.

My Top Picks for Free VPNs

If you’re on a budget but still want to maintain your online privacy (and sanity), here are a few solid free VPNs:

  1. ProtonVPN Free: No data caps, great privacy policies, but limited server options.
  2. Windscribe Free: 10GB/month for free, supports multiple devices, though limited servers on the free plan.
  3. TunnelBear Free: Cute interface and beginner-friendly, but only 2GB/month limit.

VPN FAQs Answered

1. Is there a free VPN that can change your location?

Yes, there are free VPNs that allow you to change your location. Examples include ProtonVPN Free, Windscribe Free, and TunnelBear Free. These VPNs provide access to servers in different countries, enabling you to bypass geo-restrictions. However, free VPNs often come with limitations like fewer server options and slower speeds.

2. What is the free VPN that doesn't sell data?

ProtonVPN Free is a great option as it has a strict no-logs policy and does not sell user data. It is supported by its paid plans, ensuring that free users can enjoy privacy without compromising their data. Another option is Windscribe Free, which also has a good reputation for protecting user privacy.

3. Is there a 100% free VPN?

Yes, ProtonVPN Free offers a 100% free plan with no data limits, no ads, and strong privacy features. Similarly, Windscribe Free provides 10GB of free data per month and access to servers in 10 countries. These services are genuinely free but may have limitations compared to their paid counterparts.

4. Is free VPN OK?

Free VPNs can be okay for casual use, such as bypassing geo-restrictions or basic browsing. However, they often come with limitations like slower speeds, data caps, and fewer server options. Additionally, some free VPNs may compromise your privacy by selling your data. Always choose a reputable free VPN like ProtonVPN or Windscribe to ensure your safety.

5. Is ProtonVPN 100% free?

Yes, ProtonVPN offers a 100% free plan with unlimited data, no ads, and no logging of user activity. It is one of the few free VPNs that prioritize user privacy and security. The free plan includes access to servers in three countries and is supported by ProtonVPN’s paid plans.

6. Which is the safest VPN?

Some of the safest VPNs include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and ProtonVPN. These VPNs have strong encryption, no-logs policies, and additional security features like kill switches and DNS leak protection. For free options, ProtonVPN and Windscribe are among the safest choices.

7. Does VPN track data?

Reputable VPNs with no-logs policies, like ProtonVPN and ExpressVPN, do not track or store your data. However, some free or less reputable VPNs may log your activity and sell it to third parties. Always read the privacy policy before choosing a VPN.

8. Is ProtonVPN free safe?

Yes, ProtonVPN Free is safe to use. It employs AES-256 encryption, has a strict no-logs policy, and is based in Switzerland, which has strong privacy laws. It is also open-source and independently audited, ensuring transparency and security.

9. Is ProtonVPN a hack?

No, ProtonVPN is not a hack. It is a legitimate VPN service developed by the team behind ProtonMail, a secure email service. However, users should always download ProtonVPN from its official website to avoid fake versions that may contain malware.

10. Is Windscribe free?

Yes, Windscribe offers a free plan that includes 10GB of data per month and access to servers in 10 countries. It also provides strong privacy features and does not log user activity, making it a reliable free VPN option.

11. Is ExpressVPN free?

No, ExpressVPN does not offer a free plan. However, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free. ExpressVPN is a premium VPN known for its speed, security, and extensive server network.

Closing Thoughts from Your Friendly Cybersecurity Nerd

So there you have it: my VPN escapades and lessons learned. If you’re looking to change your location for casual browsing or streaming, a free VPN can work—just pick wisely. But if you want speed, security, and peace of mind, consider going premium.

And hey, if you ever find yourself in a VPN crisis, you know who to call (or text, or email…you get the point). Until next time, stay safe out there on the interwebs!